Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	$ 13,491	$ 8,376	$ 23,846
Machine Clothing [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	3,429	6,069	22,211
Albany Engineered Composites [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)	10,062	2,314
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Restructuring expenses, net
Charges/ (reversals)		$ (7)	$ 1,635